Jimmy Carter, the 39th president of the United States and a champion of human rights and global peace, has passed away at the age of 100. His death marks the end of an extraordinary life that saw him rise from a modest peanut farm in Georgia to the White House, and later become an enduring figure of humanitarian service.

Carter, who had been the longest-living former American president, died on Sunday, December 29, according to a statement from his family. His passing comes just weeks after the death of his wife of 77 years, Rosalynn Carter, in November 2023.

A Life of Service and Leadership

Born on October 1, 1924, in Plains, Georgia, James Earl “Jimmy” Carter Jr. grew up in a small farming community. His early years were marked by the values of hard work and service instilled by his parents. After graduating from the United States Naval Academy in 1946, Carter served as a naval officer, where he developed a keen interest in nuclear energy and leadership.

In 1953, Carter returned to Plains to take over his family’s peanut business following his father’s death. It was there that his political career began, first as a community leader and later as a state senator and governor of Georgia.

Elected as the 39th president of the United States in 1976, Carter brought a focus on human rights and environmental issues to the White House. His administration is remembered for significant achievements such as the Camp David Accords, the Panama Canal treaties, and his emphasis on renewable energy. However, his presidency was also marred by economic challenges, the Iran hostage crisis, and rising tensions with the Soviet Union, leading to his loss to Ronald Reagan in the 1980 election.

Legacy Beyond the White House

Though Carter’s presidency lasted only one term, his impact as a humanitarian and global advocate extended far beyond his time in office. In 1982, he and Rosalynn founded the Carter Center, a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing human rights, alleviating global health crises, and promoting peace.

Under Carter’s leadership, the Carter Center played a critical role in nearly eradicating Guinea worm disease, monitored elections in over 80 countries, and worked to resolve international conflicts. His commitment to humanitarian work earned him the Nobel Peace Prize in 2002.

A devout Christian, Carter also taught Sunday school into his 90s and authored more than a dozen books, ranging from memoirs to works on faith and policy.

Personal Life and Final Years

Carter often credited his wife Rosalynn as a source of strength and guidance throughout his life. The couple, who met in their youth and married in 1946, raised four children together. Their 77-year marriage was one of the longest in presidential history, and their shared commitment to service inspired generations.

In his later years, Carter faced health challenges, including cancer and multiple hospitalizations. Despite these setbacks, he continued his volunteer work until entering hospice care in February 2023.

Carter celebrated his 100th birthday on October 1, 2024, surrounded by family and friends. A military flyover marked the occasion, honoring his lifetime of service.

Tributes Pour In

World leaders, political figures, and citizens across the globe have paid tribute to Carter’s remarkable life. President Joe Biden described him as “a man of unyielding faith, boundless compassion, and unwavering integrity,” adding, “Jimmy Carter showed us that true leadership is defined by service to others.”

Former President Barack Obama called him “an inspiration to us all” and praised his work with the Carter Center for “shaping a better world.”

The Carter family has asked for privacy during this time and encouraged those wishing to honor his legacy to continue his work in service to others.

Jimmy Carter’s life will be remembered not only for his political achievements but for his lifelong commitment to peace, justice, and humanity. A public memorial service is expected to be announced in the coming days.

“My faith demands that I do whatever I can, wherever I am, whenever I can, for as long as I can with whatever I have to try to make a difference,” Carter once said. He lived those words every day of his life.